Saturday, March 29, 2025
The Indian Navy has successfully conducted multiple anti-ship missile firings in the Arabian Sea, demonstrating its long-range precision strike capabilities amid rising tensions with Pakistan following the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam. The Navy showcased BrahMos anti-ship and anti-surface cruise missiles launched from a fleet of warships, including Kolkata-class destroyers and Nilgiri and Krivak-class frigates, reaffirming its operational readiness.
These exercises aimed to revalidate the platforms, systems, and crew for precision offensive strikes at sea. The Navy stated on X (formerly Twitter) that it stands “combat-ready, credible, and future-ready” to safeguard the nation’s maritime interests anytime, anywhere, and anyhow.
The drills followed Pakistan’s notification of upcoming missile firings in the Arabian Sea, signaling escalating military posturing. India’s display of maritime strength comes after diplomatic measures taken in response to the Pahalgam attack, including deportation of Pakistani nationals and suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, while Pakistan has suspended all bilateral agreements.
INS Surat, India’s newest indigenous guided missile destroyer, also completed a successful precision test of the Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MR-SAM) system against a sea-skimming target during these exercises. Commissioned in January 2025 with 75% indigenous content, INS Surat is equipped with advanced weapon and sensor systems, including Barak-8 and BrahMos missiles.
The missile firings underscore the Indian Navy’s growing prowess in indigenous warship design and operational combat readiness, highlighting India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing. These demonstrations serve as a clear message of deterrence and operational dominance in the Indian Ocean Region amid ongoing regional tensions.
